Green Spaces Project of
the Month

Introduction

Rivers and canals are very special
green spaces, but they are not always
accessible for all to enjoy. This is the
story of how Orthodox Jewish boys and
girls came to participate in river-based
activities on the River Lea in London's
Stamford Hill. A group of boys showed
initiative and asked to learn rowing.
Sensitive consultation then helped to
raise awareness and build trust between
the ethnic minority Jewish community and
the gentile run sports clubs. A
river-based art project by the local
Jewish Girls' school inspired pupils to
develop design ideas and gain a sense of
ownership of the waterside environment.
It is hoped that this will lead on to
further community involvement in
river-based recreation and amenity.